Vocabulary word Onus - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

GRE 6 (Graduate Record Examination)

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Obligation and Allegiance

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Responsibility and Obligation

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Dictionary Definition of onus

A responsibility, obligation or burden that is placed on someone or something.
"The onus is on the parents to teach their children right from wrong."

Detailed Meaning of Onus

It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as legal, moral, or social. For example, in a legal context, the onus of proof may refer to the responsibility of one party to prove their case in court, or in a moral context, the onus of responsibility may refer to the obligation of one person to act in a certain way. It can also be used to describe a burden or a difficult task that is placed on someone.
The term implies a responsibility, an obligation or a burden, and suggests that the person, thing or situation described as having the onus is being held accountable for something, or is expected to do something. It implies a sense of duty or accountability.
It is important to note that onus can also imply a sense of pressure or difficulty as it may require an effort or a sacrifice from the person or thing that holds it.

Example Sentences for Onus

1. The onus is on the students to complete their assignments on time.
2. The onus of responsibility falls on the project manager to deliver the results.
3. He bore the onus of proving his innocence in court.
4. The onus is on the government to address the pressing issues facing the nation.
5. The company places the onus on its employees to maintain a safe work environment.
6. The onus of decision-making rests with the board of directors.

Origin and Etymology of Onus

The noun 'onus' has its roots in Latin, where it meant 'a load' or 'a burden.' In Latin, 'onus' was used to refer to a physical weight or a task that required effort and endurance. Over time, the term transitioned into English as 'onus,' retaining its original sense of something burdensome. In English, 'onus' is used to describe a responsibility, obligation, or burden that is placed on someone or something. It signifies the weight of duty or the demand to fulfill a particular task or obligation. 'Onus' emphasizes the idea that certain responsibilities can be as weighty and burdensome as a physical load, highlighting the gravity and seriousness of the duties or obligations in question.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun onus:

advantage

burden

exoneration

relief

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Onus

1. The onus of preparing a successful presentation lies with the sales team.
2. It is important to share the onus of household chores among family members.
3. The onus of care for the elderly often falls on their adult children.
4. The onus of repairing the damaged equipment is on the service provider.
5. The onus is on the manufacturer to ensure the product meets safety standards.
6. The onus of proof lies with the prosecution in a criminal trial.
7. The onus of maintaining confidentiality rests with the healthcare professionals.
8. The onus is on the employee to follow the company's code of conduct.
9. The onus of explaining the complicated process falls on the instructor.
10. The onus of organizing the event lies with the event coordinator.
11. The onus is on the team to deliver a winning performance.
12. The onus of maintaining the relationship falls on both partners.
13. The onus of finding a solution to the problem rests with the committee.
14. The onus is on the project leader to ensure the project's success.